Game Overview
The Atlanta Hawks secured a 120-118 victory over the Indiana Pacers, marking their second win in three games against the Pacers. The contest stayed close until a determined fourth quarter allowed Atlanta to edge ahead, moving the team into seventh place in the Eastern Conference.
Fourth Quarter Surge
The Hawks built their momentum late in the game, with Trae Young and Caris LeVert providing the critical spark. Young contributed 36 points and eight assists, while LeVert, who has developed a reputation for fourth-quarter heroics, scored nine points in the final period, finishing with 26 points on efficient shooting. These two combined for 62 points overall, including 19 of Atlanta’s 25 fourth-quarter points, which proved decisive in the contest.
Key Player Performances
Onyeka Okongwu was a standout with 16 points, 16 rebounds, three blocks, and three steals, demonstrating a significant presence in both offensive and defensive situations. Trae Young had an explosive start, scoring 11 of the first 15 points to help set the tone, while Caris LeVert came off the bench to make an immediate impact in the early minutes. For Indiana, Benedict Mathurin emerged as a consistent scoring threat, tallying 30 points and serving as the primary offensive option when needed.
Game Flow and Critical Moments
Atlanta established an early lead by dominating the first quarter, scoring 65% from the field and holding Indiana to a stingy shooting night. The opening quarter set the pace as the Hawks built a significant advantage, and despite Indiana’s spirited comeback attempts in the second and third quarters, Atlanta maintained control. An injury scare involving Trae Young in the third quarter briefly interrupted the flow, as he left the court with a left quad contusion before returning to continue his remarkable performance. The game remained close until the final minutes when both teams traded pressure in a rapid sequence of missed opportunities before Atlanta took decisive control. A series of clutch baskets and free throws by Young, complemented by a driving dunk by Pascal Siakam as the clock dwindled, sealed the win.
Outlook and Implications
With the victory and three wins in their last four contests, the Hawks continue to find momentum as they move upward in the standings. Their effective balance of early dominance, tactical adjustments, and significant fourth-quarter contributions positions them well for their upcoming home game against the Philadelphia 76ers. The team’s cohesive performance, particularly in high-pressure moments, suggests that they remain a strong contender in the conference as the season progresses.